How you can help stop the trafficking of children in Illinois

The human trafficking of children for sex in Illinois happens in every small town and big city throughout the state. In 2016, DCFS investigated 143 calls to the hotline for allegations of Human Trafficking. Many of the reports involved children being victimized within blocks of where they live.
Trafficking is not just an issue that happens to people in other countries. The United States is a source and transit country, and is also considered one of the top destination points for victims of child trafficking and exploitation. Cases of human trafficking have been reported in all 50 U.S. States; anyone can be trafficked regardless of race, class, education, gender, age, or citizenship when forcefully coerced or enticed by false promises (source: unicefusa.org). It’s important to remember that anyone under the age of 18 involved in this crime is a victim.
The public can help us stop this crime by knowing the signs and by reporting it.

What are some potential indicators of trafficking a child? The child may:

Show signs of physical harm

Become depressed, fearful or withdrawn

Have a history of running away or currently be on run

Have expensive clothing, jewelry, manicures, pedicures, etc.

Begin spending time with an older boyfriend or girlfriend

Be found in a hotel/motel

Have new tattoos or branding

Be performing work inappropriate for his or her age

Become isolated from family, friends or sources of support

No longer have control of his or her driver’s license or other identification documents

If you suspect or know a child is a victim of human trafficking, call 911 and the DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1-800-25-ABUSE. Remember, our children are not for sale. Listen to the audio PSA.

DCFS receives, investigates and acts upon a report of child abuse or neglect every five minutes. Tens of thousands of children are safer thanks to those who call our Child Abuse hotline, 1-800-25-ABUSE (252-2873) each year. Working together, we can ensure a safe, loving home and brighter future for every child.